Mozambique reports 9,300 annual deaths from tobacco-related diseases. Tobacco use incurs economic losses of 11.7 billion meticais, or 1.3% of the GDP. Public health officials and the WHO advocate for urgent tobacco control measures to save lives and enhance economic stability.
Mozambique’s deputy director of public health, Aleny Couto, reported that tobacco consumption results in 9,300 deaths annually due to associated diseases, comprising 3.5 percent of the total deaths in the country. This alarming statistic was shared during the unveiling of a report highlighting the dangers of tobacco use. Notably, the majority of victims, 73 percent, are adults aged over 70, while 14 percent of those succumbed are passive smokers.
The economic impact of tobacco use in Mozambique is significant, resulting in losses of 11.7 billion meticais (approximately 176.9 million dollars) each year, which represents 1.3 percent of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Couto emphasized the potential benefits of implementing tobacco control measures, suggesting that they could save an estimated 53,300 lives and prevent economic losses of 45 billion meticais by 2037, promoting public health more effectively.
Couto also indicated that the nation has incurred health-related expenses of 900 million meticais, alongside 10.8 billion meticais in indirect economic losses caused by premature deaths and sick leaves related to tobacco use. In conjunction with these findings, Severin Xylandea, a representative from the World Health Organization (WHO), asserted that tobacco is a leading preventable cause of illness and death, underscoring the urgency of enhancing national tobacco control initiatives.
Xylandea urged for the immediate approval of the Tobacco Control Law in Mozambique to bolster public health. Proposed measures include implementing strict legislation, increasing taxes on tobacco products, and making these products less accessible, particularly to youth. Other recommendations entail enforcing a comprehensive ban on tobacco advertising and promotion, introducing standardized packaging, and incorporating more effective health warnings on products.
The advantages of rigorous tobacco control legislation extend beyond health improvements. Global experiences demonstrate that such measures contribute to better economic performance, enhanced productivity, and alleviating pressure on the healthcare system. Xylandea concluded by asserting that prioritizing tobacco control would not only save lives but also foster sustainable development in Mozambique.
In summary, tobacco consumption in Mozambique leads to approximately 9,300 annual deaths, inflicting significant economic burdens amounting to 11.7 billion meticais. Both public health officials and the WHO advocate for urgent legislation to implement comprehensive tobacco control measures. Such actions would not only mitigate health risks but also promote economic resilience and sustainable development in the nation.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
